Panasonic GX850 vs Pentax WG-2

Let's look a little more in depth at the Panasonic GX850 and Pentax WG-2, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Waterproof by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GX850 (16MP) and the WG-2 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the GX850 (Four Thirds) and WG-2 (1/2.3") possess different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GX850 was announced 4 years later than the WG-2 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WG-2 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple overview of how the GX850 scores against the WG-2 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850 and Pentax Optio WG-2. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX850 Gallery and Pentax WG-2 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic GX850 enjoys outer measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Pentax WG-2 has specifications of 122mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GX850 and Pentax WG-2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the GX850 versus the WG-2.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the GX850 and WG-2 is 90 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to picture the contrast in sensor measurements merely by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph here might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the GX850 and WG-2.

Clearly, both cameras enjoy the same exact resolution but different sensor measurements. The GX850 contains the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallower depth of field less difficult. The more recent GX850 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.